Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) have seized suspected drugs worth an estimated €4.7m (£4m) following an operation involving cross-border cooperation with the An Garda Síochána National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau.
The seizure was made by the PSNI’s Organised Crime Branch as part of the Joint Agency Task Force, which targets organised crime across the island of Ireland.
The operation followed the stop and search of a lorry travelling from Scotland to Larne Harbour today. During the search, detectives discovered a large quantity of suspected cannabis concealed within boxes inside the vehicle.
A 53-year-old man has been charged with possession of a Class B controlled drug and possession with intent to supply. He remains in custody.
In a statement, a PSNI spokesperson said investigators believe the drugs were destined for distribution among organised crime groups operating across Ireland.
“The Joint Agency Task Force was established with the aim of bringing a concerted and enhanced effort to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime,” the spokesperson said.
“All partners within the Task Force are totally committed to working together to reduce the misery caused by drug smuggling and to dismantle the organised groups profiting from this type of criminality.”
Police said the seizure represents a significant disruption to criminal networks and a loss of a major income stream.
“We are delighted these drugs have been removed from our streets,” the spokesperson added. “It isn’t difficult to imagine the harm that would have been caused by this volume of drugs being dealt on street corners to vulnerable people, children and those with addiction issues.”
They also challenged perceptions around cannabis-related crime.
“Some people may think that the illegal distribution of cannabis is not a big deal. I’d ask them to consider the violence and exploitation associated with organised criminal networks who stand to make millions in profit.”
The PSNI said it will continue to work closely with partners to target organised crime and urged members of the public to report any information relating to drug activity by contacting police on 101.